Harrisburg City Council Unanimously Approves Bill Limiting Cooperation with ICE

The decision came after tense public debate over the measure aimed at protecting immigrant communities.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Harrisburg City Council voted unanimously to approve a bill that will prevent city staff from using local resources to assist with federal civil immigration enforcement conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, unless required by state or federal law or when presented with a judge-signed warrant. The decision came after a heated public meeting where dozens of residents voiced their opinions on the measure.

Why it matters

This bill is seen as an important step by the city to protect immigrant communities and limit the use of local resources for federal immigration enforcement efforts. However, the process has also highlighted tensions within the community over the issue.

The details

Bill 1 of 2026 was approved after over an hour of public comment, with supporters arguing the city has a responsibility to protect all residents, including immigrants. Critics felt their concerns and suggested changes were not fully reflected in the final version of the bill. Council members debated the bill and considered several amendments to ensure the language fell within the city's legal authority.

  • The Harrisburg City Council voted unanimously on Tuesday, February 25, 2026 to approve the bill.

The players

Harrisburg City Council

The legislative body of the city of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania that voted unanimously to approve the bill limiting cooperation with ICE.

Supporters of the measure

Residents who argued the city has a responsibility to protect all residents, including immigrant communities.

Critics of the measure

Some community members who felt their concerns and suggested changes were not fully reflected in the final version of the bill.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

This vote highlights the ongoing tensions around immigration enforcement and the role of local governments in protecting immigrant communities. While the bill was approved unanimously, the process revealed divisions within the Harrisburg community that the city council will need to continue addressing.